Sizing Your Ice Machine Tips

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March 10th, 2022

Sizing a commercial ice machine and its accompanying bin might seem straightforward, but there are several key variables that are often overlooked. Neglecting these details can lead to incorrect sizing, resulting in an ice maker that produces either more or less ice than needed. It's crucial to carefully evaluate your requirements before making a purchase. One of the initial steps when buying ice-making equipment is ensuring that you account for every area within your foodservice operation that uses ice and the specific types of ice required. Additionally, you should calculate your needs based on peak consumption, typically during the busiest hours of the day, and then add a 20% buffer to accommodate unexpected demand. TIP #1: If your busiest day of the week sees significantly higher traffic than usual, it’s wise to prioritize ice storage capacity over production capacity when selecting equipment. Opt for an ice bin that can hold extra ice made overnight or in advance of your busiest day. This ensures you have sufficient supply to handle peak periods effectively. TIP #2: Recommended Serving Sizes

Below is a guideline for various common applications involving ice, which can assist you in determining the appropriate size for your ice machine:

Casual Dining: 1.5 to 2 pounds per seat daily (100 seats = 180–240 pounds of ice)

Bar/Lounge: 3 pounds per seat daily (100 seats = 360 pounds)

Salad Bar/Display: 35 pounds per foot

Hotel: 5 pounds per room per night (100 rooms = 600 pounds)

To calculate based on glass size (for beverages only):
6 ounces per 12-ounce glass (45 pounds per 100 drinks)
8 ounces per 16-ounce glass (60 pounds per 100 drinks)
12 ounces per 24-ounce cup (90 pounds per 100 drinks)

TIP #3: As mentioned earlier, when planning for peak production needs, take seasonality into account. Ice demands vary throughout the year for many businesses. For instance, summer often requires more ice than winter, or weekends may see higher usage compared to weekdays. Always factor seasonality into your calculations.

TIP #4: When replacing an existing machine, avoid basing your decision solely on the current unit's specifications. The age and condition of your old equipment can impact production rates, leading to inaccurate estimations. If you're purchasing an ice machine for the first time, make your calculations and then increase them by 20% to accommodate future growth.

TIP #5: After calculating your ice needs, it’s time to shop around. Ice machine manufacturers list production capacities for a 24-hour period. An ice machine producing 460 pounds per day will generate that amount over the course of the day and night, not all at once. These figures assume an ambient temperature of 70°F and water at 50°F. If your machine is located near a heat source like a pizza oven, expect reduced production by up to 20% due to increased workload.

TIP #6: Alongside your ice maker and bin, investing in a water filtration system is essential. Replace the filter every six months or sooner in areas with high mineral content in the water. Doing so maintains efficiency and extends the lifespan of your equipment.

Renowned ice machine manufacturers include Manitowoc Ice, Hoshizaki Ice Makers, Scotsman, Ice-O-Matic, and others.

Ice Machine Sizing Tips

Keywords: Ice Machine Sizing

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